Downtown Business, Launch Terre Haute Introduces Pitch Competition
Winner of the Competition Will Receive Discounted Downtown Business Location
Terre Haute, Ind. – Downtown Terre Haute will soon have a new business to welcome, thanks to a partnership between a longtime Terre Haute restaurant, Launch Terre Haute and the West Central Indiana Small Business Development Center.
It’s called “Launch P@d”; part business pitch competition, part business mentoring service. It was first developed by a group of volunteers on the Economic Development pillar of the See You in Terre Haute 2025 Plan. A partnership with this group, Downtown Terre Haute, the Chamber of Commerce, the Indiana Small Business Development Center and local business support allows Launch P@d to provide potential entrepreneurs a space to bring new ideas to West Central Indiana.
“Launch Pad creates the opportunity for entrepreneurs to open a brick and mortar storefront or office with the support of other local business owners, Launch Terre Haute, the ISBDC and Chamber,” says Launch Director Jared Ell. “The winner will have a built-in support system.”
The space, located at 425 Wabash Avenue, is owned by George and Cathy Azar and sits next to their family restaurant, The Saratoga. The rent for the 700 square foot office space has been drastically reduced, with the first month free. The selected Launch P@d business owner is responsible for utilities and any additional business related costs, including build-out or renovations.
Saratoga General Manager Alexis Green says the opportunity is a win-win for downtown – and their business. The current vacant spot will bring a new business downtown and will give an opportunity to an aspiring entrepreneur.
“I think this is a great idea,” Green says. “I really want to see downtown come back and bringing in new businesses is never a bad thing, nothing was in that place, so this is a great opportunity to rent the space to a small business owners. It’ll hopefully bring more foot traffic to downtown, which is a plus for everyone involved.”
Interested participants are encouraged to visit the Launch Terre Haute website for additional details and to submit a business plan. Those selected will not only pitch to a group of local business leaders, but will have the opportunity to access resources from Launch Terre Haute and the ISBDC. During sessions with Launch and the ISBDC participants will refine a business plan, practice successful pitch strategies and establish financials. No previous business experience is required. Restaurant start-ups will not be selected for this round of Launch P@d pitches.
All competition participants will receive a two-month membership to Launch Terre Haute for preparing your pitch.
For more information and complete details visit launchterrehaute.com/launchpad.
